Shell pumped oil through Nigeria pipeline for years despite pollution evidence

Internal company documents, obtained by the BBC through ongoing legal proceedings in the UK, reveal that Shell continued to operate a major Nigerian oil pipeline for years despite being aware of widespread pollution and internal warnings about environmental risks. As early as 2008, Shell executives were reportedly cautioned about the deteriorating condition of the Nembe Creek Trunk Line (NCTL), which was classified as "red" under the company's own standards, indicating a need for immediate shutdown or corrective action. Despite these internal assessments, millions of barrels of crude oil continued to flow through the 60-mile pipeline, a critical piece of infrastructure that Shell divested last year.

This continued operation has exacerbated the severe environmental degradation in Nigeria's Niger Delta, devastating wetlands, mangroves, and fishing communities, with reports of collapsed fish populations and deformed marine life. Communities like Bille and Ogale are currently pursuing a UK lawsuit against Shell, seeking $1 billion in damages, including compensation and funds for extensive environmental cleanup. Shell acknowledges some responsibility for spills but contends that significant pollution results from large-scale oil theft, sabotage, and illegal refining by third parties, for which it argues it is not liable. However, a 2014 UK court ruling indicated that Shell could be held liable for damages from sabotage if it failed to adequately maintain its infrastructure.